Asthma Relief through Acupuncture
Asthma Relief through Acupuncture
Healing asthma symptoms with acupuncture.
Asthma is a long-term condition that affects more than 20 million Americans. Caring for a chronic condition such as asthma can sometimes be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that it can be controlled. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in the management of asthma, and they work well in conjunction with other types of treatment.
Asthma is an inflammatory disease in which the airways become blocked or narrowed, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Some people have long periods without symptoms, while others may always experience difficulty breathing. Asthma attacks occur when something triggers the inflammation of the respiratory system. Flare ups can be severe – sometimes even life-threatening.
Asthma attacks are generally caused by one or more triggers, including:
A cold, flu, bronchitis, or sinus infection
Allergens including dust mites, tree and grass pollen, mold, and animal dander
Irritants that include tobacco smoke, strong fragrances, and air pollution
Certain foods and food additives
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs
Strenuous exercise
Changes in weather
Strong emotions such as anxiety, stress, grief and anger
Generally, the available approach of asthma treatment is to try and prevent attacks. This is usually done with regular use of anti-inflammatory medications, inhaled steroids and leukotriene inhibitors. Once an asthma attack is underway, quick-acting medications like corticosteroids may be able to relieve it.
A partnership for a healthier life.
It is important to remember that you are a key part of controlling your asthma. Here are a few ways you can take an active part in your treatment.
Try keeping an asthma diary to track your specific asthma triggers.
Be sure to keep all of your health care providers fully informed. This includes talking to them about any medications or herbs you may be taking, as well as any changes. in your symptoms.
Follow your practitioner’s recommendations for self-care. These might include exercises such as Qi Gong, yoga, dietary changes, or stress-relief measures suuch as meditation.
By making positive lifestyle choices and working closely with your practitioner, you’ll truly be taking charge of your asthma – and your life.
Asthma attacks are generally caused by one or more triggers, including:
A cold, flu, bronchitis or sinus infection
Allergens including dust mites, tree and grass pollen, mold and animal dander
Irritants that include tobacco smoke, strong fragrances and air pollution
Certain foods and food additives
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs
Strenuous exercise
Changes in weather
Strong emotions such as anxiety, stress, grief and anger
Generally, the available approach of asthma treatment is to try and prevent attacks. This is usually done with regular use of anti-inflammatory medications, inhaled steroids and leukotriene inhibitors. Once an asthma attack is underway, quick-acting medications like corticosteroids may be able to relieve it.
Asthma according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) goes beyond a simple diagnosis of "asthma".
Below are some of the more common TCM diagnoses that your acupuncturist may discover and treat.
- Invasion of Wind
- Phlegm Damp
- Lung weakness
- Kidney weakness
- Spleen weakness
- Liver imbalance
- Liver Heat
- Wei Qi deficiency